As exams quickly approach, many students scramble to remember the content from their classes this semester. It’s the time to study for finals and look over notes. Many teachers have different finals or some classes may even have a state exam. Study material changes depending on the classes you take, but some of the methods stay the same.

One of the best ways to start your studying leading up to exams is by learning a little bit every day. If you start to study far enough away from the day of the test, you can understand material without being overwhelmed. For example, looking over one or two units of a class each day will help to break down the content. Once you’ve understood a point or a unit, move on to the next. Cramming for a test has been proven to not work well. You won’t remember as much material and it can easily tire you out, rather than help you. 

The time and place that a student chooses to focus are important to learning and memorization. A common habit to practice is studying for a certain amount of time, for example a half hour, then taking a break for about five minutes. A habit like this can help your brain to not be overworked and it helps with memory. Studies show that a person can learn the most at the start and end of a study session. 

Some other study strategies include ways to absorb information. Many people find flashcards useful, or re-writing and condensing notes. By writing down the information again and reading it over, memorizing it becomes much easier. Some people learn better through talking. If you have a group to study with, talking through the notes and content can be a useful resource. Another example would be pretending to teach the material or reading out loud as if you were telling another person or audience. 

Many students find it difficult to study, especially with constant distractions. Although teenagers and young adults hear it often, putting away your devices, like phones, does help. Out of sight, out of mind is a trick that helps many people concentrate. Sometimes this could be turning off your phone and leaving it in another room or even closing out other tabs on your computer to keep you focused on one subject. 

There are plenty of useful, even uncommon ways to prepare. Some people listen to music or have quiet videos in the background to study, and others need complete silence and peace. Overall, it matters what works best for the student. Finding your best environment to prepare for your finals is important, and so is really taking the time for it all. Good luck with your exams, Cougars!